The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has chosen Northrop Grumman’s AN/ALQ-251 advanced radio frequency countermeasures system for its C-130J airlifter fleet. This system is designed to protect aircraft from emerging electronic warfare threats in complex environments.
The AN/ALQ-251 offers comprehensive protection by providing radar warning, situational awareness, and precise direction-finding capabilities for radio frequency threats. Its flexibility allows it to counter evolving electronic warfare systems effectively.
The integration of the AN/ALQ-251 with the RAAF’s C-130J fleet builds on similarities with a current U.S. Department of Defense program. This commonality reduces lifecycle costs and enhances interoperability across allied forces.
James Conroy, Vice President for Navigation, Targeting, and Survivability at Northrop Grumman, highlighted that the system’s digital architecture will enhance the RAAF’s ability to conduct its diverse missions, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the fleet in a range of operational environments.
The AN/ALQ-251 is already in production for the U.S. Department of Defense and is available for international use. It is part of Northrop Grumman’s broader portfolio of electronic warfare systems, which provide scalable solutions for various platforms and mission requirements. These systems are designed to ensure superior performance across the electromagnetic spectrum, enabling faster and more informed decision-making for warfighters.